MESSAGE FROM THE CEO

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As we begin another year, I hope that you had a chance to have a bit of a break before the start of no doubt another busy 12 months ahead.

While our thoughts were very much with the numerous families that were and in many cases still are feeling the effects of the recent devastating bushfires, we can only hope that sense will prevail in future state, territory and federal planning to minimise the chances of something of this magnitude happening again. As David Burnell (National President) recently mentioned, many of our AIB members will also have a future part to play in the safety assessment and rebuilding phase that will follow this fire season.

A reminder for members to register their interest and expertise by email on our dedicated address fireresponse@aib.org.au so we can have a short list of skills ready when we are contacted to provide support by the newly established national relief agency.

In 2019, we worked very hard on meeting with government decision makers in pursuit of reform to the industry. This will continue again as we start a new year, with  all Chapters focusing on the AIB Ten Point Plan – a blueprint for some of the big issues facing the industry at the moment.

  1.   Code of Ethics 
  2.   Single Regulatory Agency
  3.   National Construction Code
  4.   Formal Education for Builders
  5.   Licencing of Key Building Professions and Trades
  6.   Registration System for all Builders and Trades
  7.   Building Quality Manager
  8.   Documentation Review
  9.   Building Surveyor Sign Off
  10.   Insurance System   

Our Professional Excellence Awards have opened again and we look forward to a record number of entries and some spectacular events this year where we will acknowledge some of the best of the best. All the details of how to enter are on our new website.

Two AIB members were recently bestowed honours in the Australia Day Honours list (2020).
Firstly, Bob Wildermuth received the Medal of the Order of Australia (OAM) (General Division) for ‘service to the Building and Construction Industry’ and Robert Torrance from WA became a member (AM) in the General Division of the Order of Australia for ‘significant service to the building and construction industry’. Our sincere congratulations to both recipients – what a way to start the new year!
Finally in this column, if as a valued member you have any thoughts about how we can continue to build the AIB as a respected organisation, I would welcome your thoughts. A Value Proposition that is important to you is important to us.

I look forward to working with you all once again and wish you and your families all the best for 2020.

Have a great weekend ahead everyone.
Greg Hughes